World Superbike exile Jakub Smrz gave the Splitlath Redmond team their debut MCE British Superbike front row in qualifying at Assen today on a bike he hadn't seen before first practice on Friday.
The Czech Republic rider, who was drafted into the team when he split - for want of a better term - from the Liberty Ducati squad, is well known for putting toegether a fast lap and sits in third place on the grid.
“I am really happy that we can make this front row together with the Splitlath Redmond team here this weekend. This is not my first front row here but it is the first one for the team and this is good," said Smrz.
“I have not ridden this bike before, it is maybe two years since I rode an Aprilia and because of the different rules here in BSB, this bike is completely different to any I have ridden before. We had a few little problems early on with set-up but all the guys have done a really great job and I think we are all pretty happy to be on the front row.
“I am looking forward to getting mixed up with the guys at the front. They have all got a championship to fight for but I do not. It is not my problem so I am happy to fight with them if I have to out there. I think we shall see tomorrow.”
